2023 Polls: Lagos Governor Urges Religious Leaders To Pray For Nigeria

The Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has urged religious leaders to continuously pray for Nigeria and Lagos State as the country prepares for the forthcoming general elections slated for February 25 and March 11.

He said the prayers and counsel of the religious leaders are most needed at this crucial time.

The Governor also implored Nigerians to conduct themselves in a way and manner that will continue to guarantee the peace and security of the country.

Governor Sanwo-Olu made the appeal during a courtesy visit by the Prelate, Methodist Church Nigeria, His Eminence Oliver Aba, at Lagos House Marina.

Sanwo-Olu, who congratulated Aba on his election as the Prelate of the Methodist Church Nigeria, also called for continuous collaboration, partnership, and the relationship between the church and government.

“It is the beginning of a new year and we expect that in the course of the year, a lot of things will happen in our country including the forthcoming elections. So there is no better time to continue to pray for this country and the State, to ensure that the wishes of the people are reflected.

“We don’t have any other place and every one of us has a role to play both as stakeholders and also as leaders in our community to ensure that we use our space well; so that we still have a country, a state and people to continue to lead because we are in a position of leadership and God will bless all of us,” he said

Giant strides

The Prelate, Abah commended Governor Sanwo-Olu’s giant strides in Lagos State in different critical sectors, especially the Lagos Blue Line Rail, which is expected to be commissioned by President Muhammadu Buhari later this month.

He said: “Our general overview of Nigeria’s political and developmental landscape has left us in no doubt about the uncommon giant strides being recorded in the foremost State in Nigeria, Lagos. Through the vision, perspicacity, and tenacity of your administration and that of your predecessors, Lagos State has become the cynosure of all eyes and the reference point for excellence in administration, visionary leadership, and welfare for all Lagosians and more.

“We want to give you assurance of our support as a church. Given the commendable succession plan in Lagos State which has assured incremental development and progress and the giant strides, projects, and vision of your administration, we do not have any doubts about your continuation in office through a resounding success during the 2023 elections. 

“You and all that pertains to you in the march for the progress of Lagos State and Nigeria shall continue to be in our prayers for divine empowerment and enablement to accomplish even more than you can humanly envision through the enabling grace in Christ Jesus! Amen.

“The people called Methodists in Nigeria and in the Diasporas shall continue to have you in prayers for good health, insightful inspiration, and an excellent team of lieutenants as you take office for your second term as Governor of Lagos State and beyond!”

He also assured Governor Sanwo-Olu of continuous collaboration and partnership between the church and Lagos State Government for mobilisation of residents for progress, development, and the execution of the laudable plans of the Lagos Project and Scheme.

Olusola Akintonde